The process he used to sniff out USB communications makes for an interesting read. He utilized GlovePIE to get the USB request block for the controller. With that in hand he grabbed the Python script used in a DIY Kinect hacking tutorial to start dumping controller data. With each keypress the script reads out the full data packet, which is used to figure out how the data structures are organized.

The project has come as far as knowing all of the data types, but right now the purpose for the majority of those variables is unknown. Hopefully the blanks will be filled in over time. Two things are for sure; if you’re interested in writing Python code that can communicate with PS3 controllers this is a great source of info, and the Kinect hacking that was so fun to watch over the last few months is still bearing fruit.

11 thoughts on “All about PS3 SixAxis controller USB communications”

The bluetooth data packets and USB data packets are identical afaik, and I’m pretty sure the bluetooth protocol is well known. I’m trying to find the link I once found, it contained what every single bit represented.

I actually got my PS3 controller working with my iPhone once, It was pretty epic, and I wrote a mac app in the process to pair the PS3 controller to the iPhone’s BT address. Good times.

I’m not sure if I am reading this right, But would this supply developers with the ability to create a piece of software, where you can connect to your PS3 and bot your character in a game i.e. MW2/3 to walk around by itself and kill people online and offline?